north korea denies having a nuclear weapons program but says it plans to launch a rocket for science and research purposes before december 22nd. >>> u.n. secretary general says he does not favor an asylum deal for assad. in an interview he says anyone who commits human rights violations must be held accountable. he also warned assad today of huge consequences if he decides to introduce chemical weapons into the conflict. secretary of state hillary clinton also warned syria of a swift response from the u.s. if chemical weapons are used. >>> as the fiscal cliff looms president obama is digging in his heels. ktvu alison burns reports the president says the wealthiest americans must pay higher taxes. alison. >> reporter: the president is refusing to agree to anything else unless taxes are raised on the wealthiest 2% of americans. in fact, there are some reports this morning that the president isn't even going to hold any other face to face or one on one meetings with republicans until they cave on that demand. john boehner was at the lighting of the if christmas tree last night. republic